Ellera
Discovering Èllera
If you're looking for a peaceful place with a rustic spirit, the geographical hamlet of Èllera could be perfect for you. Located in the province of Savona, this small village boasts a millennia-old history and some interesting monuments. Let's discover together what makes Èllera a unique and special place.
History
The origins of Èllera date back to the early Middle Ages when the main village was built on the right bank of the Sansobbia stream as a refuge in case of Saracen pirate attacks. Thanks to the more defensible position of nearby Albisola, Èllera became an important and prosperous settlement. In the following centuries, the village suffered the effects of the progressive abandonment of the Albisolese plain, which became unhealthy. Other important battles were fought on the hills of Èllera, such as those between Napoleon and the Austrian army.
In addition to the main nucleus, there are numerous scattered houses from a later period, built from the sixteenth century onwards when the peasant colonization expanded onto the surrounding hills. Besides the houses, there are mills on the territory that drew strength from the water of the Sansobbia stream, used for grinding wheat and squeezing olives. Some of these mills started to be used to grind the colors used by the Albisolese ceramic industry from the seventeenth century on.
Monuments and places of interest
The territory of Èllera boasts some interesting religious architecture. The Church of San Bartolomeo, located in front of the hamlet of Èllera, was erected as an autonomous parish by Albisola in 1628. Inside, you can admire the eighteenth-century stucco and the paintings by Del Vivo. In the center of the ceiling is the fresco of the Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle by Eso Peluzzi.
The Church of Santa Maria Maddalena is located on a rocky spur just before arriving in the village from Albisola. Originally a parish church, it was founded by a hermit monk who introduced the cultivation of Olea europaea to Èllera in ancient times. The apse rests on the ruins of an ancient chapel. In addition, there is also a small chapel, called Loreto, located near the former elementary school building, along the provincial road. This chapel was recently restored by the volunteers of the National Association of Alpini.
Furthermore, for several years now, Èllera has hosted the Festival of Maiolica, during which numerous ceramic panels have been installed to create an open-air gallery of art ceramics.
Surnames originating from the place
Èllera can be considered a real family. The surnames originating from the place and still present today are Rossello, Giacchino, Siri, and Saettone.
Conclusions
In summary, Èllera is a geographical hamlet of Albisola Superiore that is worth visiting if you want to discover the history, culture, and nature of the surrounding territory. Not only can you admire interesting religious monuments and suggestive landscapes, but you can also immerse yourself in the world of art ceramics, admiring the wonderful ceramic panels displayed around the village.
